Tropical Cyclone Chido Causes Significant Impact in Mozambique and Southern Africa
Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, 2024, as a Category 4 storm, bringing destructive winds of 260 km/h and heavy rainfall. It is projected to affect over 1.7 million people in Mozambique and 440,000 in Malawi, with severe weather predicted to persist through December 17. Humanitarian efforts are being mobilized in response to the cyclone’s impact, highlighting the need for preparedness against such natural disasters.
On December 15, 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall in Mozambique, classified as a Category 4 system, with winds reaching 260 km/h and rainfall amounts of 250 mm within 24 hours. The cyclone impacted areas particularly in the Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces, causing preliminary damages and disruptions to mobile networks and electricity services. Officials have warned residents in the cyclone’s path, affecting over 1.7 million in Mozambique and 440,000 in Malawi, of potential severe weather conditions. The cyclone is expected to weaken and dissipate near Zimbabwe by December 17.
The remnants of Cyclone Chido will bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to southern Malawi on December 15 and 16, with projected rain accumulations reaching 110 mm in some locations. The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services in Malawi continues to monitor the situation closely. Heavy rainfall is also anticipated across Northern Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and parts of several Southern African nations, raising concerns about flash floods and mudslides.
In the Comoros, where Chido passed on December 14, some flooding incidents were reported, resulting in injuries and displacements on Anjouan island. The international airport was set to reopen following the cyclone’s passage, although internal flights remained suspended. The regional impact of Cyclone Chido illustrates the severe weather implications of climatic events in Southern Africa and underscores ongoing humanitarian coordination efforts to address these challenges effectively.
Tropical cyclones frequently affect regions in the Indian Ocean, posing significant threats to coastal areas in Southern Africa. Cyclone Chido formed in early December 2024, rapidly intensifying before making landfall in Mozambique. These cyclones are characterized by high wind speeds and substantial rainfall, presenting challenges such as infrastructure damage, displacement of communities, and heightened risks of flooding. Humanitarian agencies, in collaboration with national governments, have prioritized disaster preparedness and response to mitigate these impacts on affected populations.
Tropical Cyclone Chido’s arrival in Mozambique has raised alarms due to its significant wind and rainfall impacts. The cyclone’s path through Southern Africa poses a risk to millions, with substantial preparations underway to assess damage and support affected communities. The severity of the situation emphasizes the continuing threat posed by tropical cyclones in the region, necessitating a coordinated response from humanitarian agencies and governments to safeguard vulnerable populations.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
